SKYWATCH: May 23, 2021

By Phillip Virden: Lake City, Colorado Amateur Astronomer, Cooperative Observer for 30+ years for National Weather Service, Dark Sky Coordinator for Lake Fork Valley Conservancy

Lunar Eclipse on May 26th

On Wednesday morning, May 26th, Earth’s shadow’s edge will briefly graze onto the Moon’s surface.   The “show” begins at approximately 3:45 a.m. with a partial eclipse.   Full totality takes place @ 5:10 a.m. Totality ends at 6:27 a.m. 

Lunar eclipses occur when we have a full Moon and when it lines up directly opposite the Sun.   This phenomenon is known as syzygy.  We do not have lunar eclipses on a regular basis due to the tilt of Moon’s orbit. 

If skies are clear, we can anticipate the Moon turning a brilliant orange/red color.  This is because the Sun’s rays are going through the edge of Earth where a layer of dust and gas create the effect.  

The Penumbra stage is the Moon entering Earth’s outer shadow and the Umbra stage is the Moon entering Moon’s inner shadow.

If weather conditions cooperate, a great place near Lake City for viewing the lunar eclipse will be at Windy Point.   You do not need special equipment to see it, but binoculars and telescope will enhance the viewing.   When entering Windy Point, please dim your headlights to avoid blinding others.